Burns said Paul has used that same phrasing, what he calls a “famously non-binding construction,” on two consecutive morning shows, since at least Oct. 30 when he appeared on CNN’s “State of the Union.

Just a couple of weeks ago, Paul told Fox News’ “Special Report” he wouldn’t rule out an eventual third-party run, saying making such an announcement now would undermine his current campaign for the Republican nomination.

Real Clear Politics said Paul hinted that the thought has occurred to him, noting that there are more registered independents than Republicans or Democrats in the early primary state New Hampshire.

Fresh off his wide win at the Illinois straw poll on Saturday, Paul told “Fox News Sunday” he may not support the GOP nominee in the event he isn’t nominated.

“Probably not unless I get to talk to them and find out what they believe in. But if they believe on expanding the wars, if they don’t believe in looking at the Federal Reserve; if they don’t believe in real cuts, if they don’t believe in deregulation and better tax system, it would defy everything I believe in,” Paul said.

“And so, therefore, I would be reluctant to jump on board and tell all of the supporters that have given me trust and money that all of a sudden, I’d say, all we’ve done is for naught. So, let’s support anybody at all … even if they disagree with everything that we do,” Paul added.

Read the transcripts from the Sunday show here. Paul talks about running as an independent on Page 2.